Supporting our local music scene is not only an investment in local artists but also an investment in our community and ourselves. It’s a whole fun and exciting new world! When we take the time to go to an event we show that our community is involved and interested in what Merced has to offer. “Putting on shows not only helps the culture the Magazine supports but hopefully builds some kind of community people want to be a part of. These bands deserve a lot of support for all their work.” Tom says. You also meet a lot of people! Montse says it’ll boost your morale, “you don’t have to fit in, but find your own little space with someone who shares the same music taste as you.” You won’t be alone, even if it’s just for the night.

Local music brings us closer together and creates bonds as a community. For youth like me, shows are places where we can let it all out and make memories with each other. Shows provide a place for youth to do something better with our time than being bored at home or running the streets in mischief. Merced has a rich music history with many great all-ages venues, such as The Mainzer and Fatty Mocha. These places have been that home away from home for a lot of youth in generations past. Now that there are not as many local venues, teens seek that home that was torn away from them. It’s time we use our voice and together we can say loud and clear that what Merced needs is a place to let it all out!

Tags: live music, shows, spotlight, teens